Golden Cubs

Name: Braxton
Age:10
Hometown: Obetz, Ohio
Diagnosis: Asthma, Weight Management

Braxton’s story began with unexpected challenges. After nearly 42 weeks of pregnancy, he experienced rapid weight gain in the final days before birth. What doctors anticipated to be a 7 pound newborn arrived instead at 9 pounds 1 ounce and 22½ inches long. His delivery was traumatic, complicated by a shoulder dystocia that required suction assistance.

From his earliest checkups, it was clear that Braxton’s growth pattern was unique. He consistently measured in the 99th percentile for both height and weight, leading his family to partner closely with the Healthy Weight and Nutrition Clinic and the Play Strong program. Monthly visits focused on nutrition strategies, growth monitoring, and long term planning to help slow his rapid growth. Progress came in waves, but every step was supported by a team dedicated to helping Braxton thrive in a body that grows faster than most.

As he grew, new medical needs emerged. Around age two, a sleep study revealed disrupted sleep and significant snoring, which were caused by enlarged tonsils. A tonsillectomy helped him breathe more easily and rest more deeply, bringing immediate improvement. In 2021, Braxton faced another major challenge when he developed COVID pneumonia and required nearly a week of hospitalization. The illness left lasting effects, and he has managed asthma ever since. With a weakened immune system, he catches colds and infections easily, often requiring additional monitoring and treatment. Through every setback, he remains remarkably resilient.

Looking ahead, Braxton’s care journey remains complex. He will require double eye surgery in the future, continued asthma management, and ongoing work with nutrition and exercise to maintain a healthy weight for his body type. His participation in the Play Strong program has been especially valuable in supporting these goals. His care plan spans multiple pediatric specialties and reflects the long term commitment needed to support his health and development.

And through it all, Braxton remains joyful. Outside the hospital, he is simply a kid who loves to have fun, playing soccer and pickleball, exploring nature on hikes and neighborhood walks, and spending time on his iPad. Roblox and Country Balls are his favorite games, and he has a growing passion for history, and anything related to outer space.

Name: Braylee
Age: 14
Hometown: Pataskala, Ohio
Diagnosis: Malignant Mixed Germ Cell Ovarian Tumor

When Braylee began complaining of stomach pains, her parents brought her to Nationwide Children's Hospital Emergency Room, thinking she may have appendicitis. Quickly, their fears intensified as doctors expressed concerns that they may have found a tumor and that they would like to perform emergency, exploratory surgery.

After surgery, Braylee and her parents waited for the results to explain her pain. Though the time was scary and confusing, they began to build bonds with the nursing staff.

“The nurses on the fourth floor were amazing,” recalls Katie, Braylee’s mom. “They never left our room without asking if any of us needed anything. They made our stay so much better.”

When the results finally came back, Braylee was diagnosed with a malignant mixed germ cell ovarian tumor, a rare, aggressive type of cancer that is a combination of two or more types of germ cell tumors. She immediately began meeting with the oncology team.

Braylee had a port installed and began chemotherapy. After several rounds over just a few short months, Braylee completed her treatment plan on January 2, 2024. At the time, she didn’t yet know if more treatment would be necessary, but just a couple of weeks later, her scans showed no sign of the tumor, and Braylee would need no further treatment.

She quickly returned to school and dance recitals. Though her treatment didn’t slow her desire to participate on her dance team, the performance was exciting and meaningful. Braylee's upbeat personality and bright light have proved that even in the most difficult times, there are things to be happy about.

Name: Charlotte
Age: 8
Hometown: Newark, Ohio
Diagnosis: C3GN Glomerulonephritis

When Charlotte was 6 years old, her parents brought her to their local urgent care for what they assumed was a urinary tract infection. The initial diagnosis at the urgent care confirmed this suspicion, but upon receiving the labs, it was clear it was something more. Further testing led Charlotte to the Nephrology department at Nationwide Children's Hospital, where she underwent a kidney biopsy.

The biopsy confirmed Charlotte had C3 glomerulonephritis, a rare type of C3 glomerulopathy, a disease that affects how well the kidneys work. Of her time in the hospital, “I don't know if there was any other part that she didn't actually love,” recalls Charlotte’s mom, Ashley. “Most individuals would prefer not to be in the hospital. Not Charlotte. She was cheerful. She enjoyed the playroom, the gift shop and the room service menu. She had a great set of nurses and techs that were there whenever she needed something, and their quality of care was impeccable.”

During her stay, Charlotte’s labs began to improve, and no further intervention or medication was needed. However, she will need to be closely monitored for flareups for the rest of her life. Her care team helped her and her parents understand what to look for in case she experiences another flare-up, as well as a plan for what to do.

Today, Charlotte is doing great. She’s a bundle of energy with a smile that spreads to everyone she meets.

Name: Finn
Age: 13
Hometown: Westerville, Ohio
Diagnosis: Esophageal atresia, Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)

Finn’s story with Nationwide Children’s Hospital began before he ever took his first breath. During pregnancy, his parents learned he might have only one kidney. Then, eight weeks before his due date, Finn arrived early and in critical condition. Moments after delivery, he was diagnosed with a detached esophagus and urgently transported to Nationwide Children’s for lifesaving surgery. While Finn’s mother remained hospitalized, his father baptized him and waited through the emergency procedure, sending updates as their newborn fought for his life. The surgery was successful, and Finn spent the next eight weeks in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, where his parents learned to navigate the NICU, advocate for their son, and participate in his care while watching him grow from 3 pounds 12 ounces to a strong 6 pound baby ready for home.

Finn’s medical needs continued long after discharge. With only one kidney, he began lifelong nephrology care and learned from a young age to drink 1.5–2.5 liters of water daily to protect his kidney function. He worked with occupational therapists to safely chew and swallow, and his family partnered closely with specialists to monitor the repair of his esophagus. Over the years, Finn has returned to Nationwide Children’s many times. Recently, new swallowing issues led to an endoscopy that revealed Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory disease requiring ongoing procedures, medication, and a restricted diet.

Finn’s care will continue throughout his life, yet he faces each challenge with a resilience and joy that inspire everyone who meets him. Outside the hospital, Finn is an active, adventurous kid who loves playing sports like golf and soccer and spending time at the pool with friends. He also has a big heart for giving back, helping provide food and warm clothing to people experiencing homelessness and participating in toy drives each year.

Name: Hayes
Age: 9
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Diagnosis: Turbinate Hypertrophy

Hayes, a 9-year-old boy, faced persistent respiratory and nasal issues following treatment for pneumonia. Despite recovering from the illness, he experienced lingering symptoms such as chronic coughing and asthma, which required specialized care. Under the guidance of Dr. Palacios in Pulmonology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Hayes underwent treatment that revealed an unexpected anatomical anomaly—a bifid or cleft uvula. While his cough began to subside, new concerns arose, including persistent throat clearing and severe, frequent nosebleeds.

Recognizing the complexity of Hayes' case, Dr. Palacios referred him to Dr. Jatana in ENT for further evaluation. A nasal endoscopy revealed significant nasal blockage, estimated to obstruct approximately 85-90% of Hayes' nasal passages. To address these challenges, Dr. Jatana recommended surgical intervention, which included three procedures: nose cautery to manage the nosebleeds, turbinate reduction to improve airflow, and adenoidectomy to address obstructive issues.

Post-surgery, Hayes experienced a remarkable improvement in his overall health and well-being. The resolution of his nosebleeds and respiratory symptoms transformed his daily life. He gained confidence, no longer avoiding social situations out of embarrassment, and improved focus in school due to the absence of distractions from coughing or throat clearing. Additionally, Hayes' ability to breathe and sleep better contributed to enhanced physical activity and participation in sports.

This case underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in medical care. The combined expertise of Dr. Palacios and Dr. Jatana exemplifies how a comprehensive approach can address complex health issues effectively, ultimately empowering patients to thrive. Hayes' journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the profound impact that thoughtful and coordinated medical treatment can have on quality of life.

Name: Kohl
Age: 10
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Diagnosis: Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

Khol’s journey with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) began when he was just one year old. His family noticed troubling symptoms, choking on food, persistent coughing, and occasional vomiting that led to a series of evaluations and ultimately to his diagnosis. Managing EoE in a young child can be overwhelming, but Khol’s family approached each step with determination and care.

When Khol was five, his family moved to Columbus and needed a new specialist to continue managing his condition. They chose Nationwide Children’s Hospital, a decision that brought both relief and reassurance. His mother, RuVonna, shared, “Nationwide Children’s has always made us feel comfortable. They provide resources that are truly appreciated and helpful.” From their very first visit, the care team made sure the family felt supported, informed, and never alone in navigating Khol’s needs.

Today, Khol’s EoE is well controlled. With one daily medication and a diet tailored to his condition, he has been thriving. No symptoms, no choking episodes, and no setbacks. His progress reflects both the effectiveness of his treatment plan and his own resilience. As his mother puts it, “He’s doing so well now. We’re grateful every day.”

Outside of his medical journey, Khol is a bright, expressive, and creative child. He loves to sing, dance, act, and dress up, and any opportunity to perform brings him joy. He dreams of learning to play the piano and guitar someday, eager to add music to the list of things that light him up.

Name: Layla
Age: 11
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Diagnosis: Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI), Weight Management

Layla’s health journey began in third grade, when she started experiencing frequent stomach pain. As the pain worsened and rapid weight gain followed, her family searched for answers through multiple emergency visits, but did not receive any clarity. Layla was then brought to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where her care team referred her to a gastroenterologist who recognized that something more complex was happening. Testing revealed a condition that disrupts communication between her brain and digestive system, preventing her body from properly processing food. Layla was diagnosed with Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI).

With a personalized treatment plan, Layla began feeling better within a week and was able to return to school. Although she still experiences occasional discomfort, her symptoms are now manageable. Because her condition contributed to weight challenges, her doctor recommended the Healthy Weight and Nutrition Program, which provided Layla’s family with guidance, monitoring, and support to help Layla stay healthy and confident.

Through this program, Layla was introduced to the Play Strong Program, an initiative designed to help children discover the joy of movement through fun and engaging activities. It was in this program that she met her coach, Bre, whose support and genuine connection made a lasting impact on her. Layla’s dad, Brandon, says, “Bre created an environment where Layla felt supported, motivated, and excited to be active. Layla discovered new activities, built confidence, and developed a love for staying active—interests she continues to enjoy today.”

Layla is an energetic and compassionate 11-year-old who loves softball, swimming, bike riding, makeup, fashion, and collecting her favorite squishies and Stanley water bottles. She has a naturally kind heart and consistently looks for ways to support others.

Name: Makenzie
Age: 10
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Diagnosis: Atrioventricular (AV) canal defect, Weight Management

During what was expected to be a routine doctor's visit, her primary care physician informed her that she would be referred to the Healthy Weight and Nutrition Clinic for additional support. Instead of starting medication to manage her A1C levels, her doctor recommended a different first step: the Play Strong Program. This approach aims to equip Makenzie with the tools to develop healthier habits through movement, play, and confidence-building activities. It will help her improve her A1C naturally while learning to stay active in ways that are enjoyable and achievable.

For 12 weeks, Makenzie immersed herself in Play Strong. Each session introduced a new sport or activity, showing kids that exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Basic play is exercise, and exercise can be joyful. Twice a week, she arrived excited and ready to participate. She discovered new skills, tried activities she had never experienced before, and found herself looking forward to each session. Along the way, she made new friends, which made the program even more meaningful.

"The impact extended well beyond just physical activity. Play Strong helped Makenzie build her confidence, develop healthier habits, and create meaningful social connections. She learned how to stay active in ways that fit her lifestyle, and she gained a sense of empowerment that will support her long after the program ends," said Makenzie’s mom, Dynasti.

Outside the program, Makenzie continues to shine. She loves cheering and dancing and enjoys traveling experiences that let her express her energy, creativity, and curiosity.

Name: Will
Age: 9
Hometown: Galena, Ohio
Diagnosis: Wilms Tumor

In June 2020, at just three years old, Will was diagnosed with Wilms tumor of the right kidney, a moment made even heavier by the fact that both his father and grandfather were also battling cancer at the time. What should have been a carefree season of childhood quickly became a fight for his life.

Doctors at Nationwide Children’s Hospital had to move swiftly. Will underwent surgery to remove his right kidney, followed by a treatment plan that included both radiation and chemotherapy. His parents were told these steps were necessary to give him the best chance at beating the disease. Through months of appointments, procedures, and long days in the hospital, Will and his family remained optimistic. He completed his radiation and chemotherapy in February 2021, marking the end of an incredibly difficult chapter.

Even in the midst of treatment, Will found moments of connection and courage. When he began losing his hair in late July 2020, his parents noticed he wanted to watch only one game on the DVR—the Hockey Fights Cancer game. He recognized the children featured in the broadcast and would proudly say, “They’re fighting cancer like me!” That simple statement reflected both his understanding and his strength.

Hockey became more than a sport for Will—it became a source of inspiration. Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzļikins supported him during his cancer journey, and Will carried that encouragement with him. Today, at nine years old, he is a passionate hockey goalie himself, playing with the Columbus Cannons and embracing the sport with determination and joy.

Will still returns to Nationwide Children’s Hospital for occasional follow‑up appointments, but his life today is filled with far more play than procedures. Will’s journey is one of resilience, community, and hope. From a frightening diagnosis to the bright, energetic goalie he is today, his story reflects the power of expert care, family strength, and the support of people who believe in a future where every child gets the chance to grow, play, and dream.